There’s something magical about a good “Would You Rather” question- the sillier the better. But what if I told you those same giggle-inducing questions could double as powerful tools for building classroom community and sneaky science thinking?
Yep. I’m talking about using Would You Rather prompts as science warm-ups, discussion starters, and even formative assessment tools. Not only do they get students thinking, but they also get them talking, laughing, and connecting. Win-win.
Why “Would You Rather” Works in Science Class
Middle schoolers love having opinions — especially strong ones. Asking “Would you rather live on Mars or in the deep sea?” immediately gets them thinking scientifically and debating enthusiastically. You’ve opened the door to critical thinking, without it feeling like work.
Even better, these quick prompts are a classroom management dream. They start the class off with energy, curiosity, and a little bit of structure.
How I Use Them
- As Bell Ringers: I post a new “Would You Rather” question each week on Monday. Students answer on sticky notes or in their warm-up journals. I keep it low-pressure, but require evidence — scientific reasoning, if you will.
- To Build Community: I make sure some are just plain weird (Would you rather have slime for sweat or glittery tears?). These help students bond and give us all a good laugh.
- To Review Content: Would you rather use a compound microscope or a hand lens? Would you rather be a proton or a neutron? These quick checks help me see where my students are and refresh key concepts.
- To Launch New Units: Starting a unit on forces? Ask: Would you rather crash into a wall in a bumper car or slide across ice on your socks? Boom- instant engagement.
Tips for Making It Work
- Keep them short and sweet — they should take less than 5 minutes.
- Add visuals! A goofy image always levels it up.
- Make students explain their choice. “Just because” isn’t a valid answer in science.
- Let them create their own! It’s a fun early finisher or extension activity.
Bonus: Grab a Freebie
Want a ready-to-go set of science-themed Would You Rather prompts? I’ve got you covered — check out the EzPz Science Would You Rather Prompts here. They are great just to have on hand for those days when you just didn’t time that lesson out correctly!
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